Message of Greeting

The progression of climate change is one of the most pressing challenges of our times. In the light of scarce resources and the growing energy demand in emerging countries the debate on climate protection and sustainable development strategies has to be given top priority on the international social and political agendas. The welfare of future generations has to become the focal point of interest and must not be put at stake by the pursuit of quick profits. Germany is willing to accept this responsibility.

Sustainability and economic success do no longer exclude each other – on the contrary: Sustainability has become a distinctive competitive factor. New technologies contribute to stable and sustainable economic growth. Sustainability strategies serve as drivers for innovation and create new jobs. Germany produces nearly a fifth of the environmental technologies sold worldwide. Approximately 1.5 million people are working already in this industry sector. Therefore, environment, climate change, and sustainability have become priority funding issues within the innovation strategy of the German Federal Government.

However, the manifold challenges of sustainable development can only be met through co-operation on a global level. Only if we manage to include the current and future needs of emerging countries into strategies for the future can successful ideas and technologies for international markets be developed. Thus, an even closer scientific co-operation between the best and most innovative researchers and companies in the world will be the key to shaping our future.

The 5th BMBF-Forum for Sustainability will further stimulate sustainable developments. We should take the opportunity to extend and broaden last year’s research dialogue on sustainability!


Dr. Annette Schavan, MP
Federal Minister of Education and Research